Peter Sallis Net Worth

What was Peter Sallis' net worth?

Peter Sallis was an English actor who had a net worth of $10 million. Peter Sallis is best remembered for two roles that made him a household name across generations. On one hand, he was Norman "Cleggy" Clegg in the long-running sitcom "Last of the Summer Wine," appearing in every single episode from its 1973 debut until the show's finale nearly four decades later. On the other, he gave voice to Wallace, the eccentric, cheese-loving inventor in Nick Park's beloved "Wallace & Gromit" series. These two parts alone cemented his place in entertainment history, but Sallis also had a long and versatile stage and screen career that included roles in Hammer horror films, Broadway productions, and guest appearances on some of the most iconic British television programs of the 20th century. Known for his warmth, humor, and distinctive voice, Sallis worked well into his nineties, embodying both durability and charm.

Early Life

Peter John Sallis was born on February 1, 1921, in Twickenham, Middlesex, England. His father worked as a bank manager, and Sallis initially followed a practical path by taking a job as a junior bank clerk after leaving school. When World War II broke out, he enlisted in the Royal Air Force, serving as a wireless mechanic. He was later appointed as a radio instructor at RAF Cranwell after being deemed medically unfit for aircrew service. His time in the RAF sparked an interest in performing, and following the war, he enrolled at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA), beginning the path to what would become a lifelong career on stage and screen.

Stage and Screen Career

Sallis began his professional acting career in repertory theatre in the late 1940s, quickly building a reputation as a skilled character actor. He performed in numerous productions of Shakespeare and other classics, including "Macbeth" and "The Rivals." In 1965, he made his Broadway debut playing Dr. Watson in the musical "Baker Street," further showcasing his versatility.

In film, he appeared in a wide range of projects. He was cast in Hammer horror classics like "The Curse of the Werewolf" (1961) and "Taste the Blood of Dracula" (1970), and took parts in dramas and comedies throughout the 1960s and 70s. His television credits during this time were extensive, including appearances in "The Avengers," "Danger Man," "Doctor Who" (notably in "The Ice Warriors" serial), "The Persuaders!," and "The Ghosts of Motley Hall." By the early 1970s, Sallis was a familiar face on British television, known for his reliability and ability to slip comfortably into both serious and comic roles.

"Last of the Summer Wine"

In 1973, Sallis was cast as Norman "Cleggy" Clegg in the pilot episode of a new sitcom, "Last of the Summer Wine." What began as a modest comedy about three aging Yorkshire men quickly became one of the most enduring programs in British television history. Sallis was the only actor to appear in all 295 episodes across its 37-year run, making his character synonymous with the show. Clegg, with his dry wit and gentle skepticism, became a beloved figure to viewers of all ages. For many, Sallis's role in "Summer Wine" provided a sense of continuity and familiarity, linking generations through television.

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"Wallace & Gromit"

While Sallis was already well established in Britain, he gained international fame when he lent his unmistakable voice to Wallace in Nick Park's animated short "A Grand Day Out" (1989). The film's success led to sequels "The Wrong Trousers" (1993) and "A Close Shave" (1995), both of which won Academy Awards, and the feature-length "Wallace & Gromit: The Curse of the Were-Rabbit" (2005), which also took home an Oscar. His whimsical delivery of Wallace's catchphrases, particularly "Cheese, Gromit!", became iconic. Even as his eyesight deteriorated due to macular degeneration, Sallis continued voicing Wallace into the 2000s, with his final performance coming in the 2008 short "A Matter of Loaf and Death." His work gave Wallace a gentle, human charm that resonated with audiences worldwide.

Personal Life

In 1957, Sallis married actress Elaine Usher. Their relationship was often tumultuous—they divorced in 1965 but reconciled several times afterward, remaining companions until the late 1990s. They had one son, Crispian Sallis, who went on to become an Academy Award-nominated production designer. Away from his professional life, Peter struggled with macular degeneration but became a patron of the Macular Society, raising awareness for the condition. In 2007, he was appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in recognition of his contributions to drama.

Later Years and Legacy

Peter Sallis passed away peacefully on June 2, 2017, at the age of 96 at Denville Hall, a retirement home for actors in London. In keeping with the deep ties he formed with "Last of the Summer Wine," he was laid to rest alongside his co-star and close friend Bill Owen in Yorkshire. His career is remembered for its extraordinary longevity and its two signature roles, which balanced national affection in Britain with global recognition. Whether as the wry, unflappable Clegg or the exuberant Wallace, Sallis's work continues to bring laughter and warmth to audiences. His legacy lies in his ability to embody timeless humor with kindness and humanity.

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